ICD-10 Coding for Black Stool(K92.1, R19.5)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Black Stool. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Black Stool
K90-K93Primary Range
Other diseases of the digestive system
This range includes codes for gastrointestinal bleeding, including melena.
Symptoms and signs involving the digestive system and abdomen
This range includes codes for symptoms like fecal abnormalities, which can include non-melena black stools.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K92.1 | Melena | Use when stool is black, tarry, and foul-smelling, indicating upper GI bleeding. |
|
| R19.5 | Other fecal abnormalities | Use for dark stools that are not tarry, such as those from iron supplements. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for black stool
Essential facts and insights about Black Stool
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for black stool
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Stool is black, tarry, and foul-smelling.
documentation Criteria
- Provider documents upper GI source confirmed by endoscopy.
Applicable To
- Black, tarry stools
- Upper GI bleeding
Excludes
- R19.5 - Other fecal abnormalities
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Black, tarry stool appearance
- Elevated BUN:Cr ratio
- Endoscopy confirming upper GI source
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly coding for non-tarry black stools
- Failing to sequence with underlying cause
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies 'black, tarry stools' to support K92.1.
R19.5 - Other fecal abnormalities
Use for dark stools that are not tarry, such as those from iron supplements.
Applicable To
- Occult blood in stool
- Dark stool not tarry
Excludes
- K92.1 - Melena
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Dark stool without tarry quality
- Negative endoscopy for upper GI bleed
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation clarifies the absence of tarry quality.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Black Stool to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K92.1.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis of GI bleeding., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for incorrect billing and reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Train staff on importance of detailed stool descriptions., Implement checklist for GI bleeding documentation.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment may affect reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Verify stool description and query provider if necessary.
Impact
Risk of audits due to incorrect coding of black stools as melena.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed documentation and proper code sequencing.
Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Black Stool, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Black Stool
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Black Stool. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Visit for Melena
Specialty: GastroenterologyRequired Elements
- Patient history of black, tarry stools
- Associated symptoms like dizziness or fatigue
- Medication review for NSAIDs or iron supplements
- Endoscopy results
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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